That very much depends on whether or not you believe what you read in The Mercury, or what Waitrose's position might or might not be. I suspect there's a high stakes game being played out. Waitrose must have known that an out-of-town supermarket on Green Belt land was never going to get planning permission, not only because it goes against local and national planning guidance, but also their own thinking on the future of food retailing.

This weekend I asked the young till lady if the recent minor refurbishment and the impending arrival of an in store cash machine meant they had decided to stay after all.

There was a brief discussion amongst the staff as to what the implication might be and the consensus was that they would be around until 2016. So I'm glad there's been a stay of execution as I like the staff and the shop, although I can see how being larger and more modern would help a lot (the shop!). It would appear they are playing games with various interests, be they the current owners of Bircherley, the Council or Van Hagues. It makes some sense from a business perspective but there comes a point when they cross the line from being skilful negotiators to mendacious bastards.

Waitrose are not Tesco and therefore I think the term 'mendacious bastards' may not apply as integrity may be of importance to them.

I also spoke to them about the refurbishment. The response was that as any other development (Ware?) would be a long time off and still requires planning permission they need to update their existing store in Hertford. I think it will be there for a good few years to come.

Van Hage and Waitrose need you to have your say on plans to redevelop parts of the existing Van Hage Great Amwell store and build a new Waitrose food store alongside it.

Van Hage

The new Waitrose investment will allow Van Hage to provide an improved offer for its customers, including a new 100-seater bistro café to provide a better service and modern facilities for a more enjoyable experience. Van Hage will remain open during construction.The traditional Van Hage offerings of the Miniature Railway, Farmers Market, Circus, Christmas Ice Rink and Animal Gardens will remain.

Waitrose

The new store will provide the latest Waitrose food and drink offer which will include meat, fish, cheese and patisserie counters as well as a coffee shop. This will be set within a spacious, comfortable and attractive shopping environment. Waitrose will also offer their full Click & Collect service in store as well.

Please have your say, either for or against the development by clicking the below survey button - it really will only take a minute.

Your response is greatly appreciated and thank you for shopping with Van Hage.